Accessibility Changes Coming on the iPhone X

September 12, 20174:35 pm

The iPhone X features two 12-megapixel sensors with a f/1.8 wide-angle lens and f/2.4 telephoto lens. The iPhone X features optical image stabilization on both 12-megapixel sensors. It also includes an improved Quad-LED TrueTone flash, with Apple promising two times better uniformity of light. Like the iPhone 8, Apple says it will deliver an improved portrait mode that will allow users to adjust the light that’s rendered on the subject’s face. Portrait mode will also be available via the front-facing selfie camera.

The new iPhone X has an edge-to-edge screen and no Home Button, but will be using the Sleep/Wake button on the upper right hand side instead for functions such as the triple click feature for accessibility users and initiating Siri commands. Although we have yet to get our hands on the device to test accessibility features for VoiceOver users, Sighted users can wake the iPhone X by tapping on the screen. Users can then access the home screen by swiping up from the bottom of the phone. Switching between apps also requires swiping up from the bottom of the displays. Additionally, users can switch between apps by swiping from the bottom left of the phone.

Unlocking the phone is done with the company new Face ID technology. The phone will remain locked until the iPhone X is able to see the user and positively identify their face using the phone’s TrueDepth camera system. We reached out to Apple on how VoiceOver users will be accommodated on the iPhone x and this is what they told us: “The iPhone X has been designed with a number of accessibility features to support its use.

For VoiceOver users, Face ID will prompt you as to how to move your head during set up in order to complete a scan. If you do not want Face ID to require attention, you can open Settings > General > Accessibility, and disable Require Attention for Face ID. This is automatically disabled if you enable VoiceOver during initial set up.”

Comprised of a variety of sensors, including an infrared camera, floor illuminator and dot projector, among other components, the system uses multiple neural networks to recognize the face.

Apple promises Face ID will be able to adapt to the user’s face no matter how much it changes — it won’t be tricked if the user decides to wear glasses one day or grow a beard, for instance. It’s also able to work at night.

All facial recognition is completed on-device with the iPhone X’s A11 Bionic processor, with no data being sent to an online server. Face ID will be compatible with Apple Pay, as well as any third-party apps that decide to take advantage of the technology.

During the company’s demo of Face ID, the phone failed to properly identify Apple’s Craig Federighi on its first try.

The device is expected to have 2 more hours of battery life than the iPhone 7. The iPhone X’s glass back allows for Qi wireless charging. The company will release a new mat that will allow users to simultaneously charge their iPhone X, Apple Watch and AirPods.

The phone will be available in Space Gray and White on November 3rd, with pre-orders starting on October 27th. The base model is priced at $999 U.S. and $1,319 CAD and includes 64GB of internal storage. Apple will also offer a 256GB variant.

About Nelson Régo

Nelson Régo is the owner and founder of the Cool Blind Tech website since November of 2012. Nelson launched the first show on March 14, 2013. He also directs the website as a whole, hiring staff, originating new shows, and approving all content.

CBT is back with another unboxing of a wireless charger, this time from Belkin. Experience a new and effortless way to charge your iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X — wirelessly. Simply set your iPhone down on the Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad and get fast wireless charging performance.

Experience wireless charging using the Qi wireless standard, which delivers up to 7.5W to your iPhone. A subtle LED indicator allows you to know as soon as your device is placed on the pad and charging. It can charge through most cases – up to 3mm. Fast wireless charging is enabled with a free software update coming later this year.